Veterinarian-Prescribed Antibiotics for Dogs: Uses, Safety, and Precautions

 

Antibiotics are vital for treating bacterial infections in our canine companions. However, inappropriate use of these drugs can lead to serious consequences. That's why it's crucial to only give antibiotics prescribed by your veterinarian. This comprehensive guide covers the judicious use of antibiotics in dogs. It explores the types of antibiotics used, common infections treated, dosing, side effects, and safety precautions dog owners should take.

What are Antibiotics?

Antibiotics are medicines that fight bacterial infections. They work by killing bacteria or preventing them from reproducing and spreading. Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections. However, they are often lifesaving drugs for treating potentially deadly bacterial diseases in dogs.

 

Common Antibiotic Types for Dogs

There are many different classes and formulations of antibiotics available for veterinary use. The most commonly prescribed antibiotic types for dogs include:

• -          Penicillins: Broad-spectrum antibiotics that work against many types of bacteria. Examples are amoxicillin and ampicillin.
• -          Cephalosporins:  Broader spectrum antibiotics that are effective for a wide variety of infections. Ceftiofur and cefpodoxime are commonly used in dogs.
• -          Tetracyclines: Broad-spectrum antibiotics that are effective against many bacteria and some protozoal infections. Doxycycline and minocycline are tetracyclines often prescribed for dogs.
• -          Macrolides: Work against gram-positive bacteria and some anaerobes. Macrolides prescribed for dogs include azithromycin and erythromycin.
• -          Fluoroquinolones: Broad-spectrum antibiotics that penetrate tissues well. Enrofloxacin and orbifloxacin are fluoroquinolones prescribed for dogs.
• -          Sulfonamides: Inhibit bacterial growth and are often prescribed in combination with other antibiotics. An example is trimethoprim-sulfonamide.
• -          Aminoglycosides: Anti-biotics effective against aerobic gram-negative bacteria like E.coli. Gentamicin and amikacin are aminoglycosides.
• -          Lincosamides: Work against some gram-positive bacteria. Clindamycin is a common lincosamide antibiotic for dogs.

 

 Common Infections Treated with Antibiotics

Some of the most common bacterial infections in dogs that require antibiotic treatment include:

• -          Skin infections - Antibiotics treat pyoderma, hot spots, and infected wounds.
• -          Ear infections - Usually caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus pseudintermedius.
• -          Urinary tract infections - E. coli is the most common cause of UTIs in dogs.
• -          Respiratory infections - Bacterial pneumonia, kennel cough, sinusitis.
• -          Gastrointestinal infections - Antibiotics treat bacterial diarrhea, and inflammatory bowel disease.
• -          Eye infections - Bacterial conjunctivitis, keratitis.
• -          Dental infections - Periodontal disease, tooth root abscesses. 
• -          Reproductive tract infections - Pyometra, metritis, prostatitis.
• -          Bone and joint infections - Antibiotics treat osteomyelitis and discospondylitis.
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 Safety Tips for Antibiotic Use in Dogs

• -          Only give antibiotics prescribed by your veterinarian. Never use human antibiotics or antibiotics prescribed for a different dog.
• -          Give the antibiotic exactly as directed for the full course of treatment. Do not discontinue antibiotics even if your dog seems better.
• -          Never abruptly change antibiotic medications without veterinary guidance.
• -          Monitor your dog for potential side effects like vomiting, diarrhoea, or lack of appetite. Report any concerns promptly.
• -          Do not mix antibiotics with certain supplements, as they may decrease antibiotic effectiveness. Check with your vet on supplement interactions.
• -          Inform your vet if your dog has any pre-existing health conditions or is taking any other medications.
• -          Store antibiotics according to the label instructions, away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.

 

 Common Oral Antibiotics for Dogs

 Amoxicillin

• -          Penicillin antibiotic is effective against gram-positive, some gram-negative, and anaerobic bacteria.
• -          Commonly prescribed for skin infections, urinary tract infections, and dental infections.
• -          Given by mouth, with or without food. Well absorbed from the GI tract.
• -          Dosage is 5-10 mg/kg twice daily or 10-20 mg/kg once daily.
• -          Possible side effects include vomiting, diarrhoea, and allergic reaction. Generally well tolerated.

 

 Doxycycline 

• -          Broad spectrum tetracycline antibiotic that treats many bacterial infections.
• -          Used for respiratory infections, Lyme disease, skin infections, and leptospirosis.
• -          Given by mouth twice daily. Absorbed well but cannot be given with dairy products. 
• -          Dosage is 5-10 mg/kg daily. Safe for long-term use if needed.
• -          Side effects can include vomiting, diarrhoea, and photosensitivity.

 

 Clindamycin

• -          Lincosamide antibiotic is often used for skin and soft tissue infections.
• -          Effective against gram-positive anaerobic bacteria, streptococci, and staphylococci species.
• -          Given with food once or twice daily. Well distributed in the body.
• -          The dosage range is 5-10 mg/kg twice daily. The higher end for more serious infections.
• -          Diarrhea and vomiting are potential side effects. Relatively safe antibiotic. 

 

 Enrofloxacin

• -          Fluoroquinolone antibiotic that penetrates tissues well.
• -          Broad spectrum antibiotic effective for many types of infections.
• -          Given once daily, absorbed rapidly with or without food.
• -          Dosage is 2.5-5 mg/kg once daily. The higher end for more serious infections.
• -          Side effects are generally mild but can include vomiting, diarrhoea or nervous system effects.

 

 Injectable Antibiotics for Dogs

Some conditions require injectable antibiotics that get into the bloodstream quickly. Common injectable antibiotics for dogs include:

 

 Ceftiofur

• -          Third-generation cephalosporin given by injection or subcutaneous infusion.
• -          Provides broad spectrum coverage with activity against gram-negative bacteria and beta-lactamase-producing organisms.
• -          Dosage is 1-2 mg/kg every 12-24 hours depending on the particular infection being treated.
• -          Possible side effects include gastrointestinal signs and hypersensitivity reactions.

 

 Cefazolin

• -          First-generation cephalosporin for susceptible gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria.
• -          Given intramuscularly or intravenously twice daily. The dosage is 15-30 mg/kg.
• -          Rapidly distributed with good penetration into tissues and joints.
• -          Well-tolerated antibiotic with potential for mild diarrhoea or vomiting.

 

 Ampicillin 

• -          Aminopenicillin antibiotic that treats susceptible gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria.
• -          Given by intravenous or intramuscular injection 2-3 times per day. The dosage is 10-20 mg/kg.
• -          Often used for urinary, respiratory, skin, and soft tissue infections in dogs.
• -          Diarrhea is the most common side effect, with occasional vomiting.

 

 Gentamicin

• -          Aminoglycoside antibiotic effective against gram-negative dosa bacteria including E. coli and Proteus.
• -          Given intravenously or intramuscularly once daily. The dosage range is 2-8 mg/kg.
• -          Used for serious kidney, respiratory, and uterine infections.
• -          Kidney toxicity is the main concern with intravenous use.

 

 When to See the Vet for Antibiotics

In general, antibiotics should only be used when prescribed by a veterinarian for a confirmed or highly suspected bacterial infection. See your vet if your dog has symptoms like:

• -          Fever, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea
• -          Persistent coughing or nasal discharge
• -          Skin sores, ear infections, or urinary issues
• -          Dental disease or mouth odour/drooling

Your vet will examine your dog, run tests if needed, and determine if antibiotics are required. They will prescribe the safest, most effective antibiotic at the proper dosage for your dog’s specific condition. Close follow-up is required, especially if your dog develops any side effects or does not improve on antibiotics. Let your vet know right away if you have any concerns with antibiotic treatment.

 

 Conclusion

From skin conditions to urinary tract infections, antibiotics play an important role in treating many common bacterial diseases in dogs. However, inappropriate antibiotic use can lead to resistance and other problems. Work closely with your veterinarian to ensure your dog receives the correct antibiotic at the right dose. Monitor your dog closely during treatment and report any concerns promptly. With judicious use under veterinary supervision, antibiotics can greatly improve the health and well-being of your canine companion.